Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has postponed its order on charge framing against 17 accused, including 10 army officers, in a case involving enforced disappearances and torture. The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder, rescheduled the hearing to December 23 after defense lawyers requested additional time. Senior lawyer Monsurul Haque Chowdhury represented three detained officers during the session.

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam objected strongly to the defense’s repeated petitions, alleging that the defense team was deliberately attempting to mislead the tribunal and delay proceedings. He argued that such tactics were meant to obstruct justice and prevent the framing of charges despite the existence of prima facie grounds. The tribunal panel includes Justices Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud and retired District Judge Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury.

The delay highlights ongoing tensions in high-profile war crimes cases, where procedural motions often slow progress. Observers note that the tribunal’s next session will be crucial in determining whether formal charges proceed against the accused officers.